Is buying a home stressful? Does it have to be? The simple answer is n
o, as long as you’re prepared! A REALTOR® can certainly help alleviate any stress you’re feeling during the home buying process.
Knowing what’s most important to you in a home will help keep you on track while shopping. You can start the process by writing a list of your priorities.
What’s most important to you in a new home? What are you willing to fix or renovate later? What are some things you’re not concerned about or willing to overlook? Some things to consider are:
– the city or specific neighbourhoods you’re interested in
– the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you’re hoping for
– the amount of square footage or style of home (bungalow, two-storey, townhouse, condo etc.)
– the age of the home
– the finishes of the home (hardwood floors, quartz counters, etc.)
– the distance to your work, school or neighbourhood amenities
– the amount of work or maintenance needed the bring the home up to your standards
Most people would have no trouble writing a wish list of every perfect thing they’d like in their next home.
Who wouldn’t love marble counters and gold plated faucets?!
But the next step in reducing your home buying stress is to be realistic and flexible. There will never be a house that is 100% perfect (or what YOU consider perfect), but there will be something close to what you’re looking for if you’re willing to keep a logical, realistic head during the home buying process. By speaking to a mortgage or financial advisor, you’ll have a better understanding of what you can and can’t reasonably afford.
Knowing your budget will help you prioritize your wish list of things like locations, size of the home, and finishes inside & out. You may not be able to afford a fully remodelled kitchen with high-end flooring, a landscaped yard AND a large lot right from the get-go. But if you’re realistic in what you can afford, you may find a great home in a sweet location that you can slowly work on improving as finances allow.
Another great suggestion to reduce your buying stress is to get pre-approved for a mortgage. Having a pre-approval means when you do put an offer on a home, you know you won’t have any trouble getting the financing condition fulfilled.
This can make your offer stronger and more appealing to sellers! By ensuring you will be able to afford the home, you won’t feel the stress of wondering if you should actually sign on that dotted line. Remember, not only do you need to have enough money saved for your down payment and things like home inspections, but you should also set aside some cash for the things that come up after you move in.
You may need some items that you’ve never owned before, especially if this is your first home purchase. Think: lawn mower, snow shovel, or even furnace filters! It can relieve some stress knowing that you’ll be able to manage the cost of home maintenance after the deal closes.
Finally, the best way to reduce your home buying stress is to trust your REALTOR®! We have the experience and know-how to get you the best possible deal on the house you’re looking for. We know how to present a strong offer that is attractive to both you and the seller and ensures everyone is happy with the deal.
Let us guide you through the process! That’s exactly what we are here for! Home buying doesn’t need to be stressful when you’re prepared. A little planning and reasonable expectations will go a long way when you’re finding your next home!
